Gastrochilus gongshanensis

Gastrochilus gongshanensis Z.H. Tsi (1996) is an accepted species in the genus Gastrochilus. It is native to northwestern Yunnan, China (Gongshan County), where it grows in temperate to subtropical montane forests. The species typically occurs at elevations of 2000–3200 meters, found as an epiphyte on tree trunks or occasionally on rocks within evergreen broad-leaved forests.

Features:

• Plant habit: pendulous (hanging) epiphyte. Stems are slender, about 10-15 cm long, 1.5-2.0 mm wide, sometimes showing purple spots.

• Leaves: distichous (two ranks), well spaced, blades about 1.5-1.6 × 0.6-0.8 cm, with purple-red spots on the underside. Apex acute and apiculate.

• Flowers: 2-3 per inflorescence (sub-umbellate); flowers yellowish with purple speckles/blotches. The lip is divided into a hypochile (saccate) and epichile (broad/flattish) with hairs and cushions. Sepals and petals have specific shapes and sizes.

• Blooming season: flowers come around March to April; fruits follow from April to May.

Care Tips:

• Light: Provide bright, filtered light; avoid harsh direct sunlight which can damage foliage.

• Temperature: Cool to intermediate conditions suit it best—simulate its montane forest habitat. Keep temperatures relatively stable, avoiding frost or extreme cold.

• Humidity: High humidity is important (often in forest canopy / cloud forest conditions). Also ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

• Watering: Keep moisture consistent but avoid waterlogging; allow substrate to drain well. Water more during active growth; reduce during quieter periods.

• Substrate / Mounting: Grow mounted or in an airy epiphytic medium (bark, moss) to mimic its natural growing on trees/rocks. Good drainage and airflow around roots and stems are key.